Driven by the west European revival, hot coffee consumption and coffee culture is now being copied by young consumers, the latest beverage research has revealed. As the economic situation remains poor, slow growth is expected. Looking forward, however, popularity amongst the young and increased consumer spending power is likely to ensure accelerating growth of hot coffee consumption. Source: Canadean Czech Republic Global Beverage Forecasts

According to Canadean, nectars performed well relative to both juice and still drinks during 2011. Both Ocean Spray and Rubicon drinks appeared to be the brands continuing to show positive growth, whilst Britvic’s J2O has also managed to grow sales within the off-trade, helping to reduce the volume decline further. Source: Canadean UK Global Beverage Forecasts

2011 saw a 2% growth in beer consumption in Serbia according to the latest Canadean research. Warmer weather and new flavours (i.e. lemon), coupled with permanent pack promotions, encouraged consumers to favour the beverage. Over the next five years continual small growth is forecast as international companies globally advertise their beers through sporting event affiliations. A stronger performance is inhibited by stricter drink-driving policy implementation. Source: Canadean Serbia Global Beverage Forecasts

The squash/syrups industry in Republic of Ireland benefited from the weak economy and grew 5% in 2011. The category is forecast to grow by almost 3% in 2012. The trend towards double concentrate squash from Tesco Private Label, Fruice Dilute (by CCHBC) and Robinsons (Britvic Ireland) is helping boost volume. Source: Canadean Republic of Ireland Beverage Forecasts

The latest Canadean research has suggested that, whilst sports drinks remain a niche category in Belarus, in the long-term, this is likely to change. Beverage consultants suggest that, in line with the improving economy, sports drinks will become more present in modern retail, and not simply the sports clubs where they are now found. Whilst the concept of the drink is currently unfamiliar, within the next five years it is expected to be fully understood. Growth may be seen towards the ends of this forecast period. Source: Canadean Belarus Beverage Forecasts

Switzerland has one of the highest white milk consumption rates in the EU with very strong regional consumption preferences, meaning that consumers prefer white milk produced in their own region. Source: Canadean Switzerland Global Beverage Forecasts

According to Canadean, carbonates ended 2011 with 3% above the previous year, not only due to good weather conditions and a successful tourist season but also due to continuous and notable marketing activities. However, it is less likely the positive trend will continue in 2012. Cautious consumers and a threat of a new economic crisis are expected to have a negative impact on consumption. Source: Canadean Croatia Global Beverage Forecasts

In this small category, consumption continues to decrease due to strong competition from rtd products. With absolutely no innovation it is unlikely that this category will survive the forecast period. Source: Canadean Switzerland Beverage Forecasts